The Crown & Sceptre

You can tear up the rule book when it comes to The Crown & Sceptre. This charming and conveniently located establishment takes pub dining beyond your expectations. New proprietors Simon and Madeleine have created an eatery that is both contemporary and all-embracing. In addition to a delightfully warm welcome, this venue fuses a traditional pub atmosphere with a wonderful menu. Simon and Madeleine are serious about the sustainability of the ingredients used in their kitchen, and take special care to ensure nothing but top-quality produce is served up. Carefully selected real ales from local breweries, together with produce from local growers, provide the touchstone for The Crown & Sceptre's philosophy.

It is hard to imagine how a simple starter of cream of mushroom soup could be so remarkably flavoursome. There's no secret recipe - it's all down to the freshness of the ingredients and the attention to detail. Thai green curry with succulent king prawns, chicken and rice likewise delighted with each mouthful. Even my Thai guest stated emphatically that she had not tasted anything better in any Thai restaurant - a comment I took as a noteworthy plaudit. If you'd prefer a vegetarian dish, the roasted vegetable and mozzarella stack is a must. Finally, the baked hake in basil and tomato sauce was a stylish dish, underlining the expertise of the chefs and their dedication to good food - which characterises every aspect of this lovely establishment